Jottings, drawings and random musings of a designer, writer, father and husband.

Monday, 9 May 2011

Celebrities Launch New Laurel and Hardy Artwork

Jeffrey Holland and Judy Buxton unveil the new banner

Here's some news of some excellent artwork from artist Steve Lilly who has produced many great pieces in recent years:

The Southend branch of the Sons of the Desert (the Laurel and Hardy Appreciation Society), were proud to launch their new banner created by Great Barr artist Steve Lilly on Sunday 10th April 2011. Instead of their normal monthly gathering, a rather special meeting was conducted to honour the memory of Norman Wisdom.

The Saps At Sea Tent, the Southend branch of the Sons of the Desert (the Laurel and Hardy Appreciation Society), were proud to launch their new banner on Sunday 10th April 2011. Instead of their normal monthly meeting featuring classic and rare film and clips of the comedy duo, the Saps had arranged a rather special meeting to honour the memory of Norman Wisdom.

Norman was starting his career in the 1950’s when Laurel & Hardy were touring in the UK They saw him performing on several occasions and were very impressed with the young comedian. The special guests at the fun evening in Southend, were Jacqueline Wisdom (Norman’s daughter), Steve Evans (his chauffeur), Michael Leader (from EastEnders) and husband and wife stars on stage and TV Jeffrey Holland (Spike from Hi-De-Hi) and Judy Buxton (Leonard Rossiter’s girlfriend in Rising Damp). The star-studded guests attracted a full house of 90 and the fun evening raised £400 for Abbotswood Nursing Home on the Isle of Man, where Norman spent his last few years.

Steve Lilly Captures The Spirit Of Laurel and Hardy

Steve's work is now becoming very collectable with many of his originals works in private collections. His order book for commissions and events is stretching into next year. He has just signed an exclusive merchandising contract with the Dad's ArmyMuseum in Thetford.

The official Laurel and HardyMuseum and the official On the Buses fan club are stocking Steve’s limited edition prints, mugs and collectors cards. He also has strong links with the Tony Hancock Appreciation Society, the Birmingham Comedy Festival and numerous other comedy related groups and fan clubs. Further a-field Steve’s rendition of Boris Karloff in the guise of Frankenstein’s Monster has the honour of a place in the official Karloff gallery run by direct descendants of the great actor.